Dubai Police have arrested 41 individuals in a major crackdown on organized begging, recovering more than 60,000 dirhams (Rs. 4.6 million) during a raid at a local hotel.
The suspects, who had entered the UAE on visit visas from various Arab countries, were found to be involved in begging across Dubai, often selling prayer beads and other religious items to the public.
The operation, codenamed “Al-Misbah,” was conducted by the Suspects and Criminal Phenomena Department of the General Department of Criminal Investigation. Police launched the covert operation after receiving a tip-off through the 901 call center about individuals begging while selling religious items.
Initial surveillance led to the arrest of three Arab men, who confessed to being part of a larger organized gang. Further investigation resulted in the arrest of 38 more suspects at the hotel.
Dubai Police have reiterated their commitment to combating organized begging and urged the public to report suspicious activities.